These easy, healthy zucchini fritters are tasty little bites! With fresh zucchini, eggs, and a bit of flour, they come together quickly and make a great snack or side dish.
I love how crispy they get on the outside! Sometimes, I enjoy them with a dollop of yogurt on top. They disappear fast – it’s hard to share! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is essential for these fritters. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash works well too. Just make sure to use a similar amount to keep the flavors balanced.
Flour: Whole wheat flour is a healthier option, but you can substitute it with all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour if needed. Chickpea flour is also a great alternative for a protein boost!
Parmesan Cheese: While this adds great flavor, feel free to leave it out or use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Feta cheese is another delicious alternative if you want a tangier taste.
Fresh Herbs: I like adding parsley for a fresh note, but dill or cilantro can also add a nice flavor twist. Choose whatever you have on hand!
How Do I Ensure My Zucchini Fritters Are Crispy?
The key to crispy fritters is forcing out the moisture from the zucchini. Here’s how:
- After grating the zucchini, salt it and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps draw out even more moisture.
- Use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out all the excess moisture. The drier the zucchini, the crispier the fritters!
- When frying, use enough oil to coat the bottom of the skillet, and don’t overcrowd the pan. This allows them to fry properly and brown evenly.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have deliciously crispy zucchini fritters every time!
How to Make Easy Healthy Zucchini Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium zucchinis (about 2 cups grated)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for added flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10-15 minutes to cook. So in just about 30 minutes, you can enjoy fresh, homemade zucchini fritters that are healthy and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Grate the zucchinis using a box grater or food processor. Once grated, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much excess moisture as you can. This is an important step to ensure your fritters turn out crispy!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
Transfer the drained zucchini to a medium bowl. Add the salt and let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out even more moisture. Afterward, gently squeeze the zucchini again to remove any residual moisture. Then, add the egg, flour, optional Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, parsley, and black pepper. Mix everything together until it forms a cohesive batter.
3. Cook the Fritters:
Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Using a scoop or tablespoon, drop about 2 tablespoons of the zucchini mixture per fritter into the hot skillet. Flatten each fritter slightly with the back of the spoon. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
4. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Serve them warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki sauce on top if you like. Enjoy your delicious, healthy zucchini fritters as a snack, side dish, or light meal!
FAQ for Easy Healthy Zucchini Fritters
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute or mix in other vegetables like shredded carrots, yellow squash, or even grated sweet potatoes for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture as you do with the zucchini.
How Can I Make These Fritters Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free zucchini fritters, simply substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend, almond flour, or chickpea flour. Each will work well to hold the mixture together!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until heated through, which will help regain some crispiness.
Can I Freeze Zucchini Fritters?
Yes, you can freeze them! Place cooked and cooled fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours until firm. Then transfer them to freezer-safe bags. They can be reheated directly from frozen in the oven or skillet.
